Each location in Nepal is suited to a different type of volunteer worker, whether they are looking for thrills and adventure, or peace and tranquility. With tourism being Nepal’s main industry, the country welcomes over 500,000 international visitors each year, often many more. Here are some of the most sought-after destinations for tourists and workers alike.
Kathmandu. Kathmandu, Nepal’s capital city, is likely to be any traveler’s first stop-off in Nepal, and for many, is their destination. Chaotic and charismatic, Kathmandu has endless opportunities for exploration, including artistic backstreets, hidden temples, and courtyard markets selling arrays of spices and colorful handicrafts. Top sights include the city’s historic royal palace, Hanuman Dhoka, and the intriguingly-named Garden of Dreams, which serves as a sanctuary of perfect serenity in the middle of the bustling city.
Chitwan. Sharing a name with the valley in which it is located, Chitwan can be found in the foothills of the Himalayas. Many of Nepal’s crops, such as rice, maize, vegetables, and pulses are grown in the region, aided by irrigation from the Gandaki river. However, perhaps the most interesting feature of the region is Chitwan National Park, which is home to a hugely diverse selection of wildlife, including endangered species such as the bengal tiger and different species of leopards and rhinoceroses.
Pokhara. Pokhara is renowned for its mountain and lakeside scenery, and whilst it is blissfully tranquil, it is also a hotspot for adventure sports. Like much of Nepal, it is the ideal place to stay for hikers thanks to its closeness to the Annapurna range, and it is also one of the world’s best places to try paragliding. However, if you’re looking for more peace and quiet than an adrenaline rush, Pokhara’s old town is ideal for a relaxing stroll.
